Buckingham Circumcision Clamp
2,561,176 Buckingham, C. T.
Circumcision clamp
Patent Filed Sep. 15, 1950 - Issued July 17, 1951
Cl. 128-346
This is not a disposable device; but like the Plastibell and the Ross Clamp it is intended to be left in place for 24-60 hours to prevent post-surgical bleeding. There is an outer ring with a groove on the inside surface. There is an inner ring made of springy wire, with a split in it so it can be compressed to a smaller diameter. Expanded it fits into the groove in the outer ring. It is attached to the outer ring by a hinged pair of wires which also serve as a handle for compressing it. To use it, the operator first makes a dorsal slit. Then slides the outer ring over the prepuce to the desired position. Compress the inner ring by squeezing the two hinge parts together and slowly bring it into the inside of the prepuce, then allow it to expand when it is inside the outer ring. Smooth out any wrinkles, make any other adjustments in position, and then cut off the prepuce beyond the outer ring. When healing is well advanced remove the ring by squeezing the hinge parts together to compress the inner ring, and then just pull it off.
An advantage claimed for this step is that the partly healed prepuce is not expanded, so there is no stretch on the wound and consequently no pain as the device is removed. Says it can be made in various sizes to suit various ages, although the operation is usually performed on infants. The device looks like it would be difficult to position correctly. A potential problem is the lack of any protection against accidental cutting into the glans as the prepuce is sliced off. Another potential problem is that the ring might slip behind the corona and cause strangulation.
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